Adam Thompson: The strikers have taken the pressure off the Blues backline

Tommo feels a change of formation has resulted in a change of fortunes for the Blues.

Southend United defender Adam Thompson says the goals from the Blues strikers is taking the pressure off the backline to keep clean sheets.

The former Watford man has been part of the Blues side that beat both Oxford United and Portsmouth – Blues last two games – and believes that a change in formation has changed the fortunes of the team.

“When you're scoring goals, it takes pressure off the back four to defend,” Tommo said.

“Credit to the midfield and the boys up front for coming good – we always knew they would. We've created the chances and now we're beginning to take them, which is good.”

And the 22-year-old also praised the supporters' contributions during those two victories.

“The fans were unbelievable and we have all been talking about it – I'm not just saying that – I'd like to thank the fans for that – they gave us a real boost,” he said.

“I think the home form is what we've been lacking. Our home form hasn't been the best, but with a new formation, Piggy (Joe Pigott) scoring goals and Jake (Cassidy) working hard as well up front, hopefully that will change for us.

“York on Saturday will be tough to break down. We want to win home and away. Teams come to us and defend when we are playing at home. We want to kickstart out season at home against them.”

And Tommo also praised boss Phil Brown and his staff, for getting a strong squad together, as Blues aim for a promotion push in the final third of the campaign.

“We've got a good defensive unit now – we've got me, Luke Prosser, Jerome Binnom-Williams, Cian Bolger and now Adam Barrett, who can now all play at centre back.

“The competition for places keeps you on your toes and I think that's part of the reason why the defensive record has been so good this season.”